Shimano

RS785 Hydraulic Disc Brake Caliper

Shimano's RS785 Hydraulic Disc Brake Calipers bring the confidence of disc brakes — formerly available only to Di2 electronic groups — to Shimano's 11-speed mechanical groups. The RS785 brake calipers are the grabby mates to the new RS685 11-speed hydraulic mechanical shift levers. For whatever reason, Shimano has decided to forgo model branding on the hydraulic componentry, but the RS685 brakes share a tier with Ultegra's redoubtable mechanical kit.

As with all revolutionary innovations (11-speed, electronic shifting), we admit to harboring some initial skepticism about whether or not disc brakes are worth the fuss; however, there are two undeniable advantages that you'll notice after just minutes riding with disc brakes.

First, they're consistent, regardless of conditions and circumstances. There's no waiting breathlessly for the pads to clear the rim of water or debris before grabbing. There's also no panic when you're caught in the drops and confronted with a sudden obstacle like a darting squirrel or a car in a blind driveway, the brakes will still stop — even if you don't have time to get a full purchase on the lever.

As if disc braking's confident consistency isn't enough, the RS785 calipers also feature Shimano's IceTech technology. This dissipates heat via cooling fins in the braking pads helping the brakes grab faster while also increasing pad life.

Please note that the RS785 Hydraulic Disc Brake Calipers are only compatible with Shimano's ST-RS685 11-speed hydraulic mechanical shift levers.